The murder trial of 30-year-old Brandon Rainey has been halted after the presiding judge discharged the jury at Belfast Crown Court.
Mr Justice Fowler dismissed the twelve jurors on Tuesday, stating that “matters” brought to his attention necessitated the decision, according to the BBC.
Chloe Mitchell, 21, was last seen in the early hours of June 3, 2023, at Mr. Rainey’s flat on James Street in Ballymena. Her remains were discovered days later inside two residential bins in the same area, RTE.ie reported. Mr. Rainey has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and attempting to prevent the lawful and decent burial of a body.
Prosecution Case and Alleged History of Abuse
Chloe Mitchell was the “victim of a sustained assault with weapons whilst alive” before being “mutilated and dismembered in death”, the first day of a murder trial has heard. Prosecutors told the court that the killing was aggravated by domestic abuse.
Witnesses recalled incidents at Mr. Rainey’s home, including one where he had “become aggressive with Chloe and wouldn’t let her leave”, and another where he grabbed her by the hair and “threw her against the shutter of a shop so hard she fell”.
The prosecution alleged that Mr. Rainey, who had a fascination with Jack the Ripper, attempted to order “amputation knives” online from surgical companies. A fracture to the jaw could have been the result of a punch, kick, or stamp, with bruising indicating these injuries may have occurred while she was still alive.
Proceedings Halted at Belfast Crown Court
The trial began last Wednesday and had been expected to continue with testimony regarding police interviews.
“The content of that really doesn’t concern you but as a result of my enquiries and considerations, I regrettably cannot continue with this trial at present,” Mr Justice Fowler told the court, as reported by the BBC. He emphasized that the discharge was “absolutely no reflection on you as a jury” and cautioned against “speculation” regarding the reasons for his decision.
He added that he was not outlining his reasons “at this stage” but will do so at a later date “and you no doubt will be able to see and hear and read about that later.” Following this, Rainey was remanded back into custody.
Evidence Presented Before Discharge
Prior to the jury’s dismissal, the court heard graphic details regarding the discovery of Ms. Mitchell’s remains. A Detective Sergeant testified that he found suspected human remains in two wheelie bins on James Street on June 11, 2023, noting an “overwhelming stench” at the scene, The Irish News reported.
The officer, who stated he was “struggling not to throw up,” noted that he had viewed CCTV footage of a suspect believed to be Rainey making three short journeys carrying bulky items in the early hours of June 3.
The prosecution had previously outlined a case alleging that Mr. Rainey provided a “catalogue of lies” to police during interviews, including repeatedly claiming he did not know where Ms. Mitchell was. Forensic experts provided evidence concerning DNA found on a blood smear on the exterior door handle of the flat and blood spatter inside the hallway at a height of 160cms, which the expert witness confirmed was airborne when deposited.
Future Trial Schedule
Mr. Rainey, who is currently held at HMP Maghaberry, has been remanded back into custody until the trial reconvenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mr Justice Fowler did not provide a specific reason for the decision during the hearing. He stated that “matters” were brought to his attention that required him to make inquiries, and he indicated that he would explain his reasons after the conclusion of the trial, BBC reported.
Mr. Rainey is charged with the murder of Chloe Mitchell and attempting to prevent the lawful and decent burial of a deceased body. He pleaded not guilty to both charges during a hearing in 2024, RTE.ie noted.
The case has been relisted for November 25, at which time a new jury will be selected to hear the evidence, RTE.ie and the BBC confirmed.